Overview of Online Basic Life Support Certification in New York City
The Basic Life Support (BLS) training needed to apply for certification involves learning about the theory and practical applications of life-saving care techniques, particularly emergency care, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). BLS certification lasts for two years; therefore, individuals wishing to maintain their certification will need to undertake refresher training on a fairly regular basis. The training courses do not require any prerequisites for registration.
Some BLS certification hopefuls may have time constraints and require a degree of flexibility when completing a training course and acquiring certification. In this instance, blended courses can be a good option. These offer many, if not all, of the theoretical components online. They're often self-paced and some require no in-person elements at all; others require attendance at a designated training center for the practical skills component.
Online BLS Certification Requirements
The purpose of BLS certification programs is to equip participants with the key knowledge and skills to carry out life support rescue processes. With blended courses, the online component generally consists of online theoretical materials but could sometimes include more interactive tools and aids, such as simulations.
Information and requirements
Although there is some variation between BLS training courses, they should all provide participants with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to understand and perform the key BLS techniques, particularly the application of CPR and defibrillation in emergency situations, such as respiratory blockages, drug overdoses and heart attacks.
Upon completion of the foundational knowledge component (the theory portion), participants will then usually move on to the practical skills training, although some courses will require the successful completion of an online exam before individuals can proceed to the hands-on section. The practical skills component allows participants to apply the theory they have learned in practice.
Additional Information
BLS certification must be renewed every two years and renewal can be achieved through the completion of a BLS review course within 30 days of their existing certification expiring. If a renewal course is not completed within this time frame, individuals will need to do a full certification training program.
List of Online Programs for BLS Certification in New York City
There is a wide range of BLS certification program options in New York City, many of which facilitate online learning. The online courses cover the same content as would be covered in the classroom.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross delivers a BLS certification program at various locations in the New York City area. The course structure is blended, consisting of an online theoretical component and an in-person skills module at an appropriate facility, featuring CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) skills demonstrations and case-based emergency response scenarios. The program requires a 4.5-hour time commitment and, in addition to theory, equips participants with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. At the end of the course, if completed successfully, participants receive a two-year BLS certification.
ACLS Medical Training
The ACLS Medical Training's BLS certification program is delivered 100% online with no in-person skills test required. The program features courses covering CPR, AED, and the myriad techniques recommended for resolving choking emergencies. All of the study materials are included as part of the registration fee, the examination can be taken at any time, and the certification is recognized in New York.
American Heart Association
The BLS certification program offered by the American Heart Association can be completed in a blended format. The theoretical component represents the online section of the course (it's called HeartCode BLS) and covers topics such as CPR, AED, choking relief and ventilation. This online section takes around 1 to 2 hours to complete and prepares participants for the required in-person hands-on practice and testing.
BLS Career Outlook
A total of 18,610 people are employed as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in the state of New York. The overall job outlook for EMTs and paramedics is above average, with job growth predicted to be 6% from 2019 to 2029, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS has also calculated that, as of May 2019, the mean annual wage for this profession in New York was $44,920. This mean wage compares favorably with other states.
BLS certification programs equip existing and aspiring emergency healthcare workers with vital skills, such a CPR and the use of AED. A number of these programs on offer in New York City offer a substantial online component, allowing important flexibility for busy key workers.
